Spring Conventions in 2026 That Prove Smaller Shows Still Shine

A look at smaller pop culture events across the Pacific Northwest and beyond, highlighting community-driven events worth checking out if the bigger spring conventions are out of reach.

Pacific Northwest Spring Conventions and BigfootBetween big events like Sakuracon taking place this weekend and Calgary Fan Expo across the regional divide, these are the big two spring conventions in the Pacific Northwest, or close by, that define April. They are both great shows, but for locals, staying closer to home is sometimes the better option. Smaller conventions tend to focus on community support, a specific genre, or cosplay culture rather than acting as large-scale marketplaces. Although their special guests are not always A-listers, they are still worth noting. No matter their level of fame, they remain a draw.

Here’s a quick list of events happening soon, especially if the big Seattle event is not in the budget.

Squatchcon
(Port Angeles, WA | April 9–12)
This show leans a bit into folklore and more into what AnimeKat offers, as they are most likely one of the best hangout spots to give locals what they love, a place to geek out with a more traditional “science-fiction convention” experience, complete with a dance and regional support.

crypticon

Crypticon Seattle
(SeaTac, WA | May 1–3)
The Pacific Northwest’s dedicated horror convention, drawing genre fans with an emphasis on film, dark art, and guests that mainstream cons rarely book.

Northern FanCon
(Prince George, BC | May 1–3)
This convention is the one that started it all for the Langford sister show, and it’s one of the few that offers to fans living in the boonies a chance to experience a full pop culture event without travelling far south.

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The Guest Lineup for Island FanCon 2026 is Looking Good!

Island FanCon 2026 is shaping up as a community-focused pop culture event for Langford and the surrounding region, with a guest list that blends film, television, and sports personalities in a way few local conventions attempt.

Island FanCon 2026

Island FanCon 2026 is beginning to take shape with a regular wave of guest announcements, and to their credit, they are doing one thing other shows have not done: to include stars from the sports arena to the pop culture scene. Now in its third year, the convention functions as a hometown, community-focused event for residents of Langford, British Columbia, and surrounding areas. The event is scheduled to take place from June 5 to 7, 2026, at City Centre Park.

Whether the show is worth traveling to depends largely on your interest in the specific talents attending. You won’t find “hard to find” comics or high-end collectibles here, but for those looking to interact with guests or find traditional staples like Harry Potter, Pokémon, Star Wars, and Funko to add to a collection, the show offers a bit of everything. This also includes a selection of vendors who typically market to tourists at local summer events.

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2026 Pop Culture Winter Convention Guide (and Early Spring)

From furry meetups in Seattle to xenomorph lore in Longview and capes along the Vancouver waterfront, this January–April 2026 guide maps the biggest and best fan winter convention (s) taking place across the Pacific Northwest so you can plan your next nerdy escape.

Pacific Northwest Conventions and Bigfoot Winter Convention GuideAfter the holidays, many geeks and weebs waste no time gearing up for the winter convention season, and 2026 brings more mid-sized and major events than ever. Some haven’t appeared in past guides simply because space is limited and timing is everything, but this year’s lineup is bursting with energy. The season may not have officially kicked off yet, but there’s nothing like the warmth of community, cosplay creativity, and spirited celebrations to chase away the winter chill.

Across the Pacific Northwest, you’ll find furries, sci-fi diehards, tabletop adventurers, cryptid hunters, fantasy readers, and even the occasional xenomorph wandering the halls. While no alien invasion is expected, one cleverly named event leans right into the folklore. Presented here is a guide to everything nerdy from January through April, organised by date to help you plan, budget, and maybe even squeeze in the time to finish that costume once Santa’s safely packed away.

OrcaCon

OrcaCon LogoJan 10–12, 2026
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Seattle Airport
18740 International Blvd, SeaTac, WA

OrcaCon is a tabletop-gaming con that puts community first, with spaces for board games, RPGs, miniatures, and more. The vibe is inclusive, with a strong emphasis on accessibility and diversity. Panels and playtesting opportunities give independent designers and hobbyists room to shine, making it a welcoming space for both casual players and dedicated strategists.

Guests Announced So Far: None formally listed yet for 2026.

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The Deets on Island Fancon According to Lonnie Eckardt, An Interview

… and we have reactions from the fandom community far and wide about Island FanCom, taking place mid-april!

Lonnie Eckardt, Spokesman for Island FanConLonnie Eckardt has been passionate about all things pop culture for as long as he can remember. And after spending time at Northern FanCon not only as an attendee back when they first started in 2015 but also as a president in the latter years since 2021, he’s decided to bring some of that vibe to Langford, BC! This sibling event known as Island FanCon is being run by a dedicated group of individuals from this community.

As he’s no stranger to event organisation and after a decade living in the Dogpatch (a term used back in the 90s than today), it will be difficult to sway some people who have opinions about this part of Greater Victoria. But since Lonnie is up-to-date in seeing how this sleepy township has grown, he felt it was time to set up a celebration locals can like. The response has largely been positive.

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